Greening out can often refer to a marijuana overdose.
While you may have heard the term “blacking out” in relation to alcohol abuse, greening out is a variety of unpleasant feelings after the use of marijuana.
But where does the term “greening out,” come from? What are the side effects of marijuana overdose.
Nashville Treatment Solutions offers marijuana addiction treatment in Nashville, Tennessee.
What Is Greening Out?
Greening out occurs when a person consumes a large or particularly strong amount of cannabis (marijuana). Someone who has greened out may experience effects such as the following:
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Confusion and disorientation
- Problems with balance, coordination
- Feeling that their arms and legs are too heavy to move
- Nausea and vomiting
- Anxiety, panic, and paranoia
Greening out is an effect of cannabis abuse, and its effects, while potentially quite unpleasant, do not include amnesia.
Who Is at Risk for Greening Out?
Anyone who uses marijuana can be at risk of greening out, but the likelihood of going through this experience may be elevated for those in the following circumstances:
- People who have little to no prior experience with marijuana, and who end up using more of the drug than they should have.
- Individuals who are trying edibles for the first time and mismanage the dosage level.
- Someone who has been drinking heavily or using other substances in addition to marijuana.
- A person who uses marijuana when they are dehydrated or haven’t eaten enough.
Is Greening Out Dangerous?
One way to answer the question, “What does greened out mean?” is that it means a person has overdosed on marijuana.
Now, it’s important to understand that, in this context, overdose means that a person has used more (or more potent) marijuana than they were able to safely handle. This doesn’t mean that they are in imminent danger of dying, as can occur when a person overdoses on opioids or some other substances.
In most cases, the effects of greening out will dissipate in a few hours. While they can be upsetting, they don’t usually cause lasting harm. That doesn’t mean that the experience is entirely risk-free, though.
The disorientation and disrupted coordination that can result from greening out can cause slips, falls, and more serious accidents. Also, someone who greens out on a regular basis may struggle with long-term mental health concerns.
Risks of Marijuana Overdose
A marijuana “overdose” isn’t the same as an overdose on substances like opioids or alcohol, which can be fatal. However, excessive consumption of marijuana, especially with high-potency products or edibles, can lead to uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous effects, often referred to as “greening out.” Here are the primary risks associated with consuming too much marijuana:
1. Severe Anxiety and Panic Attacks
- Overconsumption can trigger intense feelings of anxiety and paranoia, often leading to panic attacks. This is more common in those who are new to marijuana, have underlying anxiety disorders, or consume high THC products.
2. Psychotic Symptoms
- High doses of THC may induce temporary psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, or severe confusion. These effects typically subside after the drug wears off but can be distressing.
3. Heart Issues
- Marijuana can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which might pose risks, especially in those with heart conditions. In some cases, marijuana use has been linked to heart attacks, especially among older individuals or those with preexisting heart problems.
4. Extreme Drowsiness and Fatigue
- Overdosing on marijuana can lead to intense drowsiness, sometimes to the point of near sedation, making it difficult to stay awake or respond to surroundings. This can be particularly risky if someone is driving or in another unsafe situation.
5. Nausea and Vomiting (Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome)
- Consuming excessive marijuana, especially over prolonged periods, can cause nausea and vomiting, known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). This condition may require medical treatment and can be distressing for users.
6. Dizziness and Loss of Coordination
- High doses of THC can impair motor skills, balance, and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents, falls, and injuries.
7. Intense Mood Swings
- Some individuals experience severe mood changes or irritability after consuming too much marijuana. This may also include agitation or restlessness.
8. Cognitive Impairment
- Overuse can lead to memory problems, impaired judgment, and difficulty with attention and concentration, which can be dangerous if the person is in a situation that requires quick thinking or alertness.
9. Risk of Respiratory Issues (With Smoking)
- While not specific to overdose, inhaling excessive smoke from marijuana can lead to respiratory issues, including coughing, throat irritation, and shortness of breath.
Long-Term Risk Awareness
- While these effects typically wear off as marijuana leaves the system, frequent overconsumption may increase the risk of developing a cannabis use disorder, particularly in individuals with a predisposition for addiction.
If someone experiences severe effects, staying hydrated, calm, and in a safe environment can help them manage the symptoms while the THC metabolizes. However, in cases where physical symptoms like chest pain, persistent vomiting, or severe confusion occur, it’s wise to seek medical help.
Does Greening Out Mean I’m Addicted to Marijuana?
Going through a green out doesn’t mean that you have developed cannabis use disorder, which is the clinical term for marijuana addiction. But if you experience multiple green outs, this could be a sign that you have lost control of your marijuana use.
(And yes, contrary to an unfortunately persistent myth, it is possible to become addicted to marijuana.)
If you think that you might be addicted to marijuana, ask yourself the following questions:
- Once you start using marijuana, do you find it difficult or impossible to stop?
- When you’re not able to use marijuana, do you become agitated, irritated, or angry?
- Have you continued to use marijuana even after incurring harm as a result of prior use?
- Do you need to use larger amounts of marijuana to achieve the effects that you desire?
- Have you begun to prioritize marijuana use over your personal, academic, or work-related responsibilities?
- Have you started to use marijuana in particularly dangerous ways, such as by combining it with other addictive substances?
- Do you find it difficult to be happy or cope with stress without using marijuana?
- Have you tried to end your marijuana use, but discovered that you were unable to do so?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may want to consider talking to your doctor or another healthcare provider about your concerns.
Find Marijuana Addiction Treatment in Nashville
The best way to protect yourself from greening out is to stop using marijuana. If you can’t accomplish that on your own, Nashville Treatment Solutions can help.
Our center serves adults in the Nashville, Tennessee, area whose lives have been disrupted by the compulsive use of marijuana and other substances. We also care for adults whose struggles with addiction are accompanied by certain co-occurring mental health concerns.
At Nashville Treatment Solutions, we understand that every person who becomes addicted to marijuana is impacted in a unique way, and we are committed to providing a truly personalized experience to everyone who seeks our assistance. We offer multiple outpatient options, including both day and evening programs, as well as sober living residences for those who need supportive housing while they are enrolled in treatment.
If you’re ready to stop using marijuana for good, the Nashville Treatment Solutions team is here for you. To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Admissions page or call us today.
